Summer is upon us and that means lots more time at the beach, by the pool, at the cookout, and spending time with family and friends. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day is still considered a major time to play for both children and adults alike.
In between jaunts to farmers markets and trips to the park, however, there’s still plenty of time to sit back and take in some good (or at least entertaining) TV and film.
Below are highlights of upcoming series and movies scheduled to premiere or return to our screens in June that feature notable Black talent. We’ll continue to roll out our screen picks each week.
June 2
S.O.G.: The Book of Ward – Showtime movie
Documentary charts Andre Ward’s journey from the streets of Oakland to the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Facing an all-too familiar series of obstacles including substance abuse, the loss of a parent, drug dealing and teen pregnancy, how Ward faced that adversity is what separates him from the rest. Fight after fight he defied the odds and silenced his critics. And then, guided by faith and devotion, he walked away, choosing his role as a father and husband over his boxing career.
Searching For Soul Food – Hulu series
Follows chef Alisa Reynolds as she explores the stories, people and traditions of different locations, discovering what soul food looks like around the world and bringing her own flavor with her.
Shooting Stars – Peacock movie
A look at the young life of basketball star LeBron James. Feature film adaptation of LeBron James’ and Buzz Bissinger’s book “Shooting Stars” featuring Natalie Paul (The Deuce), Algee Smith (Euphoria), Caleb McLaughlin (Stranger Things), and Wood Harris (Remember the Titans).
Little Richard: The King and Queen of Rock and Roll – PBS documentary
Explores the far-reaching legacy of legendary singer Little Richard.
June 4
The Idol – HBO Max series
A self-help guru and leader of a modern-day cult enters a complicated relationship with a rising pop idol. Featuring The Weeknd, Melanie Liburd (This Is Us, Power: Book II), Moses Sumney (Venom).
The Eric Andre Show – Adult Swim S6
Comic Eric André tries to host a talk show in a bizarre environment, where he is sometimes the player of pranks and sometimes the victim.
The Lazarus Project – TNT series
A top secret organization dedicated to preventing mass extinction events and with the ability to make time go backwards. Featuring Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You)
June 6
Flamin’ Hot – Hulu/Disney+ movie
Produced by DeVon Franklin, this movie tells the inspiring true story of Richard Montañez who as a Frito Lay janitor disrupted the food industry by channeling his Mexican American heritage to turn Flamin’ Hot Cheetos from a snack into an iconic global pop culture phenomenon. Features Dennis Haysbert (24),
Mending The Line – TBD
A Marine wounded in Afghanistan is sent to a V.A. facility in Montana where he meets a Vietnam Vet who teaches him how to fly fish as a way of dealing with his emotional and physical trauma. Features Sinqua Walls (Teen Wolf, Friday Night Lights).
June 10
Mary J. Blige’s Real Love – Lifetime movie
Story follows Kendra as she goes to an HBCU in North Carolina. Kendra is determined to focus on school while balancing work study and keeping things professional with her photo class partner. Featuring Ajiona Alexus (13 Reasons Why), Da’Vinchi (Jessica Jones).
June 14
The Wonder Years – ABC S2
The coming-of-age story of a 12-year-old boy in Montgomery, Ala., in the late 1960s, as told by his adult self. Co-Produced by Lee Daniels. Featuring Don Cheadle (Hotel Rwanda), Dule Hill (Psych)
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